Crop Progress - State Stories 

ISSN: 2470-9816

Released March 28, 2023, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service 
(NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of 
Agriculture (USDA).

ALABAMA: March temperatures were generally on par with historical averages, 
although some locations saw slightly warmer temperatures than average. 
Despite this, there was a deep freeze in the month that negatively affected 
crops. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 2.9 inches in Dale County to 
9.8 inches in Shelby County. The northern half of the State received a 
significant amount of precipitation in March, while the southern half of the 
State received average to below average amounts of rain. According to the 
U.S. Drought Monitor, 30 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions 
by month's end, compared to 1 percent at the month's beginning. Drought 
conditions in the State were limited to the southern half of the State. 
Operators continued to plant row crops where conditions were dry enough, with 
heavy rainfall disrupting some planting activities. Reporters noted that 
operators who planted early due to warm temperatures were negatively impacted 
by the deep freeze. Winter wheat was reported to be in good condition 
overall, but yields are expected to be lower than average due to the freeze. 
Pasture conditions were reported to be good in the northern half of the 
State, but poor to fair in the southern half due to the differences in 
precipitation. Cattle were reported to be in fair to good condition, with 
some operators in the southern half of the State having to supplement feed 
due to poor pasture conditions.
ALASKA: DATA NOT AVAILABLE
ARIZONA: This report for Arizona is for the month of March 2023. Responses 
were based on the entire month, with consideration for any weather-related 
impacts that are forecast between now and month's end. By the end of the 
month, 94 percent of the barley had emerged, 2 percentage points ahead of the 
previous year, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the 
National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. Forty-five percent of the 
barley had headed, 13 percentage points behind last year. One hundred percent 
of the barley was rated in good to excellent condition. Ninety-six percent of 
the Durum wheat had emerged. Thirty-five percent of the Durum wheat had 
headed, 8 percentage points behind the previous year. One hundred percent of 
the Durum wheat was rated in good to excellent condition. Three percent of 
the cotton had been planted, 3 percentage points behind the previous year. 
Ninety-five percent of the alfalfa crop was rated in good to excellent 
condition, with harvest taking place on more than three quarters of the 
alfalfa acreage across the State. Sixty-eight percent of the pastures and 
ranges were rated in good to fair condition as soil moisture conditions 
remained mostly adequate. According to the United States Drought Monitor as 
of March 26, abnormally dry conditions covered 24.5 percent of the State and 
moderate drought covered 8.3 percent. The State was free of severe, extreme, 
and exceptional drought. In the south-eastern part of the State, forage 
growth had been improving. In the south-central part of the State, sustained 
rain and adequate precipitation maintained healthy plant and flower growth. 
Above average precipitation was reported in the north-central and 
west-central parts of the State during the week. According to the High Plains 
Regional Climate Center, in the last 7 days, the average minimum temperature 
was reported 20 degrees Fahrenheit, mostly in the north-central and 
east-central parts of the State. The average maximum was 80 degrees 
Fahrenheit, mostly in the southwestern part of the State.
ARKANSAS: For the week ending March 26, 2023, Topsoil moisture supplies were 
0 percent very short, 2 percent short, 34 percent adequate, and 64 percent 
surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies were 2 percent very short, 3 percent 
short, 49 percent adequate, and 46 percent surplus. There were 2.6 days 
suitable for fieldwork. March brought excessive rain to the State. The recent 
cold snap has producers covering fruit crops and looking for potential 
damage. Producers were feeding hay and supplements to their herds and flocks. 
Spring calving season is underway. Rainfall was above average and 
temperatures for this time of year were slightly below average.
CALIFORNIA: For the week ending March 26, 2023 - Days suitable for fieldwork 
4.7. Topsoil moisture 5% short, 35% adequate, 60% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
35% adequate, 65% surplus. Pasture and range condition 60% good, 40% 
excellent. Winter wheat condition 5% fair, 90% good, 5% excellent. 
Precipitation for most parts of the State ranged from 2 to 20 inches 
throughout the month. Storms carrying precipitation and strong winds limited 
accessibility to fields. Northern parts of the State, as well as Central 
Coastal areas were experiencing freezing to near freezing temperatures, which 
caused excess humidity and delayed field work. Although some low-lying areas 
had winter wheat crops under water, precipitation and temperatures have been 
excellent for most of the winter wheat crop in central California. Pesticides 
were applied to winter forage and grain crops. Organic asparagus producers 
were waiting for warmer and drier days to start the harvest. Some producers 
reported having to relocate their livestock due to flooding. Producers were 
hopeful that pastures will be in good condition for grazing after the rainy 
season. Stone fruit orchards were in bloom. Later varieties of almond trees 
continued to bloom, while early varieties were leafing out. However, the 
rain, freezing temperatures, and wind negatively affected almond and early 
variety plum bloom and pollination. When fungicides were applied properly, 
later stone fruit varieties were not significantly affected. Early variety 
grapevine buds were opening. Citrus harvest was slowed due to persistent 
rains. Citrus trees were topped and skirted. In Tulare County, cabbage, 
broccoli, lettuce, garlic, onions, and strawberries continued to progress 
during the cold and wet weather. However, planting of vegetables on the 
Central Coast has been delayed due to wet field conditions. Blackberries and 
blueberries were blooming.
COLORADO: This report for Colorado is for the entire month of March 2023. 
Cooler temperatures were observed across the State last week, according to 
the Mountain Region Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics 
Service, USDA. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 36 percent of the State 
was under drought conditions, unchanged from last week and down from 
83 percent a year ago. Nine percent of the State was experiencing severe to 
exceptional drought conditions, equal to last week. Calving and lambing made 
significant progress, with reporters noting some producers are having 
difficulty with the cold, wet weather. Below average temperatures continued 
in northwestern counties. According to the Natural Resources Conservation 
Service (NRCS), USDA, snowpack in the region was 149 percent of median 
snowfall. Northeastern counties received above average moisture last week, 
with much of the district receiving over half an inch according to the 
National Weather Service. Feed supplies in the district are short and pasture 
conditions were reported as very poor to fair. In the San Luis Valley, cold 
temperatures slowed down fieldwork. Barley planting continued ahead of the 
normal pace. Reporters noted the valley floor remained dry, but runoff from 
above average snowpack should help the irrigation season. In southeastern 
counties, conditions remained dry and winter wheat was primarily rated very 
poor to poor condition. Southwestern counties experienced multiple moisture 
events last week, with more than two inches reported in many areas according 
to the National Weather Service. Reporters in Dolores and San Miguel Counties 
noted that heavy snowpack remained prevalent on fields across the district. 
Cold weather and moisture had a negative impact on calving and lambing in the 
area last week. Calving and lambing continued with few issues, with 
53 percent of cows calved and 49 percent of ewes lambed. As of March 26, 
2023, snowpack in Colorado was 141 percent measured as percent of median 
snowfall according to the NRCS, USDA. The Southwest and San Luis Valley were 
183 and 141 percent, respectively. Stored feed supplies were rated 14 percent 
very short, 30 percent short, 53 percent adequate, and 3 percent surplus. 
Sheep death loss was 1 percent heavy, 47 percent average and 52 percent 
light. Cattle death loss was 1 percent heavy, 38 percent average, and 
61 percent light.
DELAWARE: The State experienced warmer than normal conditions. Some producers 
have reported small grain and fruit have broken dormancy and may suffer frost 
burn or bud loss with cooler temperatures. There have been high winds 
interfering with spraying and fertilizing activities. Lower than average 
precipitation. Fieldwork activities included pea planting, nitrogen 
application and spreading poultry manure on dry soil. Some pest concerns to 
be monitored.
FLORIDA: March temperatures ranged from 0.6 to 6.3 degrees warmer than normal 
depending on location. Total rainfall for the month ranged from 0.3 inch in 
Broward County to 5.9 inches in Alachua County. According to the U.S. Drought 
Monitor, 88 percent of the State had abnormally dry conditions by month's 
end, compared to 80 percent at the month's beginning. Most of the State did 
not receive much precipitation in March, as only the northern third of the 
State received a significant amount. The lack of precipitation continued to 
worsen drought conditions across the State and negatively impacted pastures, 
with pasture conditions reported as mostly poor to fair. Reporters noted that 
preparations for spring planting of row crops continued to progress well 
across the State, with operators taking advantage of the dry weather. Citrus 
grove activities throughout the month included mowing, fertilizing, spraying 
pesticides, removal of dead trees, and general grove maintenance. Fruits and 
vegetables that were planted and harvested during March include green beans, 
yellow squash, strawberries, watermelon, zucchini, sweet corn, pepper, and 
avocadoes. Rice planting progressed well throughout the month, as did harvest 
of sugarcane. Despite the lack of precipitation in much of the State, cattle 
were reported to be in mostly good to fair condition.
GEORGIA: March temperatures ranged from 0.5 to 5.7 degrees warmer than 
historical averages depending on location. Total rainfall for the month 
ranged from 1.7 inches in Worth County to 7.0 inches in Carroll County. 
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 17 percent of the State had abnormally 
dry conditions and 5 percent had moderate drought conditions by month's end, 
compared to 13 percent abnormally dry and 3 percent moderate drought at the 
beginning of the month. Georgia temperatures fluctuated greatly from several 
days of freezing temperatures to warmer days above 80 degrees. The late 
freeze damaged many fruit trees across the State. Peaches were noted to have 
sustained significant damage in northern Georgia since most varieties were in 
full bloom during the freeze events. Abundant rainfall in some areas delayed 
farmers from prepping fields for spring planting. Winter grazing and cool 
season pastures were set back due to the freezing temperatures; however, they 
are now bouncing back with milder temperatures and adequate rainfall. 
Livestock conditions were mostly good; however, hay supplies ran low in some 
areas. Muddy ground caused by heavy rainfall was causing concern for foot 
conditions for livestock. Spring calving was also noted to be going well for 
cattle producers. The growth of wheat, rye, and oats were reported to be 
relatively good, although some wheat fields were burned due to the freezing 
temperatures. Wheat and oats were reaching peak pollination with many fields 
receiving a final fungicide application. Wet soil conditions were an issue in 
harvesting of early Vidalia onions. Growers were making preventative sprays 
for downy mildew in the Vidalia onion crop. Corn planting began across the 
State during the month with emerged corn damaged from the freezing 
temperatures. The damage is not expected to be severe since the growing point 
was still underground and protected. Fields were being burned down in 
preparation for spring planting of peanuts, cotton, and soybeans.
HAWAII: DATA NOT AVAILABLE
IDAHO: The average temperatures in Idaho for the month of March varied from 
below normal to normal for most regions of the State. Accumulated 
precipitation remained slightly below to above normal for the water year. In 
northern Idaho, the area saw cooler than average temperatures throughout 
March. Winter cereals were not growing, and alfalfa had yet to break 
dormancy. In south south-central Idaho, conditions were cold with above 
average precipitation. There was little to no field activity in March. In 
southeastern Idaho, temperatures were below normal with heavy snowfall. 
Winter weather with additional snow accumulation caused planting and field 
work delays.
ILLINOIS: For the week ending March 26, 2023. Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 
4% short, 55% adequate, 40% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 8% 
short, 62% adequate, 29% surplus. Statewide, the average temperature in March 
was 39.9 degrees, 0.4 degree above normal. Precipitation averaged 
4.69 inches, 2.13 inches above normal.
INDIANA: For the week ending March 26, 2023. Topsoil moisture 2% very short, 
6% short, 49% adequate, 43% surplus. Subsoil moisture 3% very short, 12% 
short, 61% adequate, 24% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 1% very 
poor, 5% poor, 30% fair, 52% good, 12% excellent. Statewide temperatures 
averaged 40.4 degrees, 0.9 degree above normal for the month of March. 
Statewide average precipitation was 5.30 inches, 2.63 inches above normal. 
March was off to an unusually warm start with average temperatures 
momentarily dipping in the middle of the month before returning closer to 
normal as March wrapped up. March also brought plentiful precipitation for 
much of the State which increased soil moisture levels from the previous 
month. Higher than average precipitation resulted in muddy field conditions 
and ponding for some. Winter wheat conditions fell slightly from February 
with 64 percent of the crop rated in good to excellent condition. Livestock 
were reported to be doing well despite muddy field conditions. Other 
activities for the month included Spring planting preparations and grain 
hauling.
IOWA: Farmers reported plenty of snow in March, which was mostly melted by 
the end of the month. Snow and rain events during the month have producers 
more optimistic about soil moisture levels for the 2023 growing season. 
Livestock were reported to be in good condition, although there were many 
reports of muddy feedlots with some livestock on cornstalks and supplemental 
feed. Calving and lambing continued. Grain movement was normal for the season 
with some reports of gravel roads in poor condition. Cover crops were 
emerging. Producers were preparing equipment for fieldwork and manure and dry 
fertilizer were applied to some fields.
KANSAS: For the week ending March 26, 2023. Days suitable 5.7. Topsoil 
moisture supplies rated 36% very short, 32% short, 31% adequate, 1% surplus. 
Subsoil moisture supplies rated 45% very short, 32% short, 22% adequate, 1% 
surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 26% very poor, 26% poor, 29% fair, 17% 
good, 2% excellent. Winter wheat jointed 4%.
KENTUCKY: For the month of March, Kentucky saw slightly above normal 
temperatures and above normal precipitation. Temperatures varied widely 
throughout the month with seasonably warm weather followed by winter like 
conditions. The middle of the month saw nighttime temperatures in the 20s and 
30s. Most of the rain accumulation occurred between two days. Flooding was 
prevalent during each rain event. The heavy rain later in the month was 
accompanied by heavy wind leading to widespread property damage. Temperatures 
for the period averaged 47 degrees across the State, 1 degree above normal. 
Precipitation (liq. equ.) for the period totaled 4.59 inches Statewide, which 
was 0.87 inch above normal and 123% of normal. Hay supplies continue to be 
mostly adequate, but that margin has diminished. Warmer temperatures are 
pushing early pasture and forage growth. For the month, hay supplies 7% very 
short, 29% short, 59% adequate, 5% surplus. Livestock condition 1% very poor, 
6% poor, 23% fair, 63% good, 7% excellent. Condition of winter wheat 1% very 
poor, 3% poor, 32% fair, 58% good, 6% excellent. Farmers are spraying wheat 
and applying fertilizer as the planting season looms.
LOUISIANA: For the week ending March 26, 2023, topsoil moisture 1% very 
short, 3% short, 85% adequate, 11% surplus. Subsoil moisture 3% short, 89% 
adequate, 8% surplus. Conditions for the State - the month of March began 
with improving field conditions and soil temperatures on the rise allowing 
the planting preparation to begin. The second half of the month resulted in a 
late spring frost setting sugarcane, pastures, fruit trees, and spring 
vegetable conditions back. Cattle producers are still feeding some hay and 
spring grasses are beginning to develop. Most corn acres are now planted and 
sitting in saturated soils, as well as rice acres planted. Sugarcane growers 
remain caught up on field work and some crawfish producers are experiencing 
marketing issues left draining fields due to low price and bait costs. 
Farmers and producers remain focused on planning for the new crop year and 
remain hopeful for a productive upcoming growing season.
MARYLAND: The State experienced warmer than normal conditions. Rainfall has 
been below normal for March, but with some heavy rain late in the month. 
Field work activities included nitrogen and some manure application as well 
as herbicides, preparing for spring planting. Overall, crops looked good.
MICHIGAN: For the week ending March 26, 2023. Topsoil moisture 4% short, 77% 
adequate and 19% surplus. Subsoil moisture 11% short, 79% adequate, and 10% 
surplus. Winter wheat condition rated 2% very poor, 7% poor, 30% fair, 48% 
good, and 13% excellent. Precipitation for the month of March to date 
averaged 2.19 inches throughout the State, 0.42 inch above normal. 
Temperature for the month of March to date averaged 31.3 degrees, 1.4 degrees 
above normal. Approximately 90 percent of the State experienced no drought 
conditions, with 10 percent experiencing abnormally dry conditions or worse, 
according to the US Drought Monitor. The driest areas include counties in the 
southeast thumb region of the Lower Peninsula. March weather has been close 
to historical averages with several freezes and thaws. Recent precipitation 
caused much of the Lower Peninsula to lose most of the snow cover and brought 
moisture back to fields and pastures. Winter Wheat has not yet broken 
dormancy in many areas. Maple syrup season has been running smoothly and is 
expected to run for another couple of weeks. Other activities throughout the 
month included spring soil testing, fertilizer application, and tending 
livestock.
MINNESOTA: Snowfall was heavier than normal over most of the State, resulting 
in unusually high snow cover for this time of year. Ground frost remained 
low, which could help soil moisture levels in the spring. Calving proceeded 
as normal, and no major livestock issues were reported. The snow cover will 
likely push planting back in many areas, but more favorable weather in the 
near future could minimize the delay.
MISSISSIPPI: For the week ending March 26, 2023, topsoil moisture supplies 
were 1% very short, 1% short, 65% adequate, and 33% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
supplies were 1% very short, 1% short, 68% adequate, and 30% surplus. 
Conditions for most of March were extremely wet and cold, leaving many 
farmers kept out of fields due to numerous rain events. Wet weather and 
freezing rain at night has led to stressful conditions on livestock and early 
vegetables. Short periods of warm weather have promoted some spring forage 
growth; however, the wet conditions have not allowed for pasture improvement 
in continuous grazing situations. Rye grass is behind and livestock owners 
are low on available hay. The wheat crop has experienced rapid growth over 
the month through the fluctuating weather patterns. Producers are beginning 
to see an increase in temperatures and aerial herbicide applications are 
underway. Overall, with temperatures on the rise and excess rainfall across 
the State for the month of March, producers are hopeful to get in the field 
for a prosperous planting season.
MISSOURI: For the week ending March 26, 2023. Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 
5% short, 68% adequate, and 26% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 9% 
short, 76% adequate, and 14% surplus. Winter wheat condition 0% very poor, 2% 
poor, 28% fair, 67% good, and 3% excellent. Statewide, precipitation averaged 
4.75 inches for the month of March, 2.04 inches above average. Temperatures 
averaged 42.4 degrees, 1.4 degrees below normal.
MONTANA: This report for Montana is for the month of March 2023, through 
March 26. Responses were based on the entire month, with consideration for 
any weather-related impacts that are forecast between now and month's end. 
Topsoil moisture 4% very short, 19% short, 75% adequate, 2% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture 10% very short, 42% short, 46% adequate, 2% surplus. Winter wheat 
condition 6% poor, 63% fair, 20% good, 1% excellent. Winter wheat wind damage 
64% none, 25% light, 11% moderate. Winter wheat freeze damage 80% none, 12% 
light, 8% moderate. Winter wheat protectiveness of snow cover 1% very poor, 
32% poor, 34% fair, 24% good, 9% excellent. Pasture and range condition 18% 
very poor, 32% poor, 26% fair, 24% good. Livestock grazing accessibility 28% 
open, 24% difficult, 48% closed. Livestock receiving supplemental feed cattle 
and calves 97% fed. Cows calved 13%; 35% last year. Livestock receiving 
supplemental feed sheep and lambs 98% fed. Ewes lambed 8%; 30% last year. The 
month of March brought varying temperatures and snowy weather to the State of 
Montana, according to the Mountain Regional Field Office of the National 
Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. According to the National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), temperatures for the month of March ranged 
from 52 degrees to 9 degrees across the State. Drought conditions improved 
slightly in areas experiencing moderate, severe, and extreme drought; 
however, overall drought conditions continued to persist compared to the 
previous month. In Valley County, cold temperatures, heavy snowpack, and 
windy conditions were reported leading to stock losses and lower forage 
quality. Mineral, Missoula, and Ravalli Counties reported warmer days, colder 
nights, and moisture which led to some reports of pneumonia and scours in 
calves. Golden Valley and Musselshell County reported light snow and varying 
temperatures. Yellowstone County reports noted many inches of wet heavy snow 
of late. The States Winter wheat breaking dormancy was at 3 percent.
NEBRASKA: For the week ending March 26, 2023, topsoil moisture supplies rated 
16% very short, 33% short, 46% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
supplies rated 32% very short, 40% short, 27% adequate, and 1% surplus. 
Winter wheat condition rated 11% very poor, 32% poor, 35% fair, 19% good, and 
3% excellent.
NEVADA: For the week ending March 26, 2023 - Days suitable for fieldwork 0.9. 
Topsoil moisture 5% short, 55% adequate, 40% surplus. Subsoil moisture 10% 
short, 85% adequate, 5% surplus. Pasture and range condition 10% very poor, 
30% poor, 55% fair, 5% good. Statewide precipitation ranged between 0.5 and 
4 inches. Precipitation was unusually high across the State. Fields remained 
too muddy for field work. Pasture needed warmer temperatures to progress. 
Snowpack in the mountains brought concerns about possible flooding when the 
temperatures start to rise.
NEW ENGLAND: Throughout the month of March, New England weather alternated 
between snowstorms and spring-like conditions. Regional monthly temperatures 
ranged from 8 to 52 degrees. According to Connecticut and New Hampshire 
reporters, March was slightly snowier than February. According to a Vermont 
reporter, with the warm weather present, soil started to appear from snow 
melt. All this has been gradual which is helping keep moisture in the soils. 
Winter markets were still going strong, especially those with a variety of 
vegetables on hand. Farmers attended meetings, made marketing arrangements, 
and were planning for the upcoming 2023 growing season. New England's maple 
season has been highly variable throughout the region due to changing 
temperatures. This year's weather has led to sap flowing earlier - a trend 
with milder winters in recent years. According to a Maine reporter, maple 
syruping is in full swing. Maple syrup producers across Maine opened their 
sugarhouses to visitors. In some locations throughout New Hampshire, maple 
syrup operations continued to collect sap as temperatures allowed, while 
others were already pulling their taps for the season. Many locations 
throughout the region had manure storages approaching capacity; some places 
have already begun spreading manure while others were preparing their 
machinery for spreading manure soon. Farm activities included beginning 
spring tillage, maintenance on farm equipment, some seeding houses being 
turned back on, some tomatoes being planted for transplants in high tunnels, 
pruning fruit trees and bushes, and some vegetables were being planted.
NEW JERSEY: Prior to the rains of this past weekend, March has been milder 
and drier than normal for the month. The south and northwest have been 
driest, while some east central areas have been closer to average. Much of 
the State experienced ideal conditions for soil preparations and planting. 
Both direct seeding and transplanting is progressing. Fields are being 
prepped, and greenhouses stocking up.
NEW MEXICO: This report for New Mexico is for the month of March 2023, 
through March 26. Responses were based on the entire month, with 
consideration for any weather-related impacts that are forecast between now 
and month's end. Topsoil moisture 23% very short, 40% short, 37% adequate, 0% 
surplus. Subsoil moisture 25% very short, 56% short, 19% adequate, 0% 
surplus. Winter wheat condition 21% very poor, 23% poor, 46% fair, 4% good, 
6% excellent. Cows calved 40%, 45% last year. Cattle receiving supplemental 
feed 78%, 90% last year. Cattle condition 1% very poor, 7% poor, 47% fair, 
33% good, 12% excellent. Ewes lambed 40%, 50% last year. Sheep receiving 
supplemental feed 72%, 80% last year. Sheep and lambs condition 7% very poor, 
16% poor, 50% fair, 24% good, 3% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 32% 
very short, 44% short, 22% adequate, 2% surplus. Stock water supplies 36% 
very short, 34% short, 30% adequate. This was the first month of 2023 that 
asked respondents to report on the condition of alfalfa hay, and 74 percent 
was reported in fair to good condition. Chile planting season was off to a 
slower start than last year, with only 3 percent of acres planted so far, 
compared to 21 percent at this time last year. New Mexico received more 
precipitation than normal during the month of March, but counties in the 
northeast continued to experience exceptional drought. Comments from 
Union County noted high winds, low humidity, and lack of beneficial 
precipitation as continued challenges related to high fire danger. Any 
significant precipitation continued to mostly be accumulated in the western 
counties. According to the United States Drought Monitor for March 21, 
exceptional drought (D4) persisted in the northeast corner of the State, 
affecting land in Union County. Extreme drought (D3) was noted across 
3.6 percent of the State, severe drought (D2) covered 11.7 percent, moderate 
drought (D1) covered 17.4 percent, and abnormal dryness (D0) covered 
32.4 percent. Over thirty-four percent of the State reached drought free 
conditions, primarily in the western half of the State. This was an increase 
in drought-free conditions of 12.8 percent from the previous month.
NEW YORK: March overall experienced more mild temperatures for most areas, in 
comparison to the previous month. Areas in the proximity of Cortland County 
experienced a fluctuation of freezing temperatures and snow, causing concern 
for the alfalfa crop. Producers are preparing for the spring season with the 
spreading of manure in addition to making other general plans for spring 
field preparation and planting. Maple production has experienced little to no 
interruptions. Vineyard crews are still tying vines to wire and conducting 
checks on equipment in preparation for the spring season.
NORTH CAROLINA: For the week ending March 26, 2023 - Subsoil moisture 1% very 
short, 11% short, 74% adequate and 14% surplus. Topsoil moisture 13% short, 
77% adequate and 10% surplus. Barley condition 3% poor, 14% fair, 81% good 
and 2% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 1% very short, 9% short, 88% 
adequate and 2% surplus. Oats condition 5% poor, 29% fair, 58% good and 8% 
excellent. Pasture and range condition 1% very poor, 3% poor, 45% fair, 48% 
good and 3% excellent. Winter wheat condition 12% fair, 79% good and 9% 
excellent. Throughout March, conditions were near normal with temperatures 
and rainfall near average. Adequate rainfall has sustained most pastures 
throughout the winter months.
NORTH DAKOTA: For the week ending March 26, 2023, topsoil moisture supplies 
rated 5% very short, 30% short, 57% adequate, 8% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
supplies rated 9% very short, 36% short, 51% adequate, 4% surplus. Winter 
wheat condition rated 1% very poor, 3% poor, 60% fair, 34% good, 2% 
excellent. Cattle and calf conditions rated 2% very poor, 6% poor, 40% fair, 
49% good, 3% excellent. Cattle and calf death loss rated 4% heavy, 69% 
average, 27% light. Calving progress was 33%, equal to last year. Sheep and 
lamb conditions rated 3% very poor, 10% poor, 40% fair, 43% good, 4% 
excellent. Sheep and lamb death loss rated 3% heavy, 62% average, 35% light. 
Lambing progress was 56%, ahead of 50% last year. Shearing progress was 70%, 
near 71% last year. Hay and roughage supplies rated 2% very short, 25% short, 
71% adequate, 2% surplus. Stock water supplies rated 1% very short, 10% 
short, 84% adequate, 5% surplus.
OHIO: For the week ending March 26, 2023. Topsoil moisture 1% short, 46% 
adequate, 53% surplus. Subsoil moisture 1% very short, 3% short, 64% 
adequate, 32% surplus. Winter wheat condition was rated 3% very poor, 10% 
poor, 29% fair, 51% good, 7% excellent. The Statewide average temperature was 
39.8 degrees, 1.4 degrees above normal. Precipitation averaged 4.02 inches 
Statewide, 1.54 inches above normal for March. This past month marked a shift 
towards higher temperatures punctuated by cold snaps, with a transition in 
precipitation patterns from snowfall to mostly rain showers. Fields were 
soaked in southwestern portions of the State, with some counties receiving a 
monthly rainfall total in excess of 6 inches during March. Reporters remarked 
on the surplus moisture in fields as farmers anticipated the start of 
planting activities. Farmers with winter wheat fields described top dressing 
and supplementary nutrient application during the past month. Farmers in the 
southern counties reported growth of cover crops and fall-seeded alfalfa 
stands, supported by the late-month warmth. Livestock were reported to be in 
good condition against the backdrop of soggy fields and fair days.
OKLAHOMA: For the month of March, rainfall totals averaged 0.76 inch 
throughout the State, with the East Central district recording the highest 
precipitation at 5.85 inches and the Panhandle district recording the lowest 
precipitation at 0.13 inch. According to the March 21 US Drought Monitor 
Report, drought conditions were rated 66 percent abnormally dry to 
exceptional drought, down 21 points from last year. Additionally, 59 percent 
of the State was in the moderate drought to exceptional drought categories, 
down 18 points from the previous year. Statewide temperatures averaged in the 
50's, with the lowest recording of 9 degrees at Kingfisher on Sunday, 
March 19, and the highest recording of 90 degrees at Magnum on Saturday, 
March 11. Topsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly adequate to short. 
Subsoil moisture conditions were rated mostly very short to adequate.
OREGON: Moisture conditions throughout the State ranged from very wet to wet 
for March. However, the western part of Oregon received lower than normal 
amounts of precipitation. Temperatures ranged from below normal to around 
normal. Columbia, Multnomah, and Washington Counties reported below average 
temperatures and rainfall. Nurseries were doing okay from winter weather. 
Berries were hit by winter weather with concerns that cold pockets could 
cause some damage. Polk County reported unusually cold temperatures. Clatsop 
and Tillamook Counties reported cold temperatures, hail within the last half 
of the month, and severe weather warnings in places. Morrow County reported a 
smaller winter wheat crop than in previous years. Winter wheat struggled to 
emerge and grow with later than average planting dates and cold soil 
conditions. Gilliam, Hood River, Sherman, Wheeler, and Wasco Counties 
reported subpar moisture content with below average temperatures. Baker and 
Grant Counties reported low temperatures and high moisture, with standing 
water in fields. The cold temperatures negatively impacted calving. Douglas, 
Jackson, and Josephine Counties reported high moisture and low temperatures 
which limited field work. Malheur County reported low temperatures with 
storms throughout the month. These storms led to above average snowpack. 
Streams began to fill and run off. Lake County reported very high 
precipitation compared to the median.
PENNSYLVANIA: The State experienced warmer weather conditions this month 
compared to previous years. The warmer weather conditions have allowed 
farmers to be able to be in the fields more. Some farmers were busy with 
spring plowing and fertilizing their crops. Cereal rye for chopping was 
starting to elongate and was growing fast due to recent rains and warm and 
sunny weather. Many farmers were topdressing small grains with herbicide and 
nitrogen. Small grains and forage like wheat, barley, and rye were quickly 
greening up. Some black plastic was laid for vegetable production.
SOUTH CAROLINA: March temperatures ranged from 0.1 to 4.9 degrees warmer than 
historical averages depending on location. Total rainfall during the month 
ranged from 1.1 inches in Berkeley County to 6.7 inches in Calhoun County. 
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 16 percent of the State had abnormally 
dry conditions by month's end, compared to 100 percent of the State having no 
drought classification at the beginning of the month. South Carolina 
temperatures fluctuated greatly from several days of freezing temperatures to 
warmer days above 80 degrees. The late freeze damaged some crops in the 
Upstate region. Rainfall was noted to have been adequate to slightly 
excessive in some areas. Fields were being prepped for spring planting with 
some farmers beginning to plant corn and tomatoes. The strawberry crop was 
reported to be looking good, although yield for strawberries in the Pee Dee 
region is anticipated to be less than usual due to diseases being prevalent 
in fields. Strawberries in the Lowcountry region were noted as coming in 
strong with good quality and yields. Peach producers were busy assessing the 
peach crop following several freeze events throughout the month. Some damage 
is anticipated in early-season varieties since they were already fruiting. 
Small grains were progressing well and on schedule. Most wheat was able to 
avoid damage from the last freeze. Pastures were reported to be greening up 
and cattle were noted to be in good condition.
SOUTH DAKOTA: For the week ending March 26, 2023, topsoil moisture supplies 
rated 4% very short, 23% short, 69% adequate, 4% surplus. Subsoil moisture 
supplies rated 9% very short, 34% short, 54% adequate, 3% surplus. Winter 
wheat condition rated 3% very poor, 11% poor, 64% fair, 21% good, and 1% 
excellent.
TENNESSEE: For the week ending March 26 - Days suitable 3.1. Topsoil moisture 
1% short, 61% adequate, 38% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% short, 70% adequate, 
28% surplus. Winter wheat condition 4% very poor, 9% poor, 25% fair, 54% 
good, 8% excellent. Pasture and Range condition 4% very poor, 15% poor, 40% 
fair, 38% good, 3% excellent. Cattle condition 1% very poor, 5% poor, 31% 
fair, 57% good, and 6% excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 8% very short, 
32% short, 56% adequate, 4% surplus. Tennessee experienced ample rainfall in 
March, helping to replenish the water table after a long, dry summer and 
fall, though flooding in some areas has damaged wheat crops. Some wheat 
stands have not been able to recover after the extreme frigid event in 
December as well. Warmer weather has brought new growth to pastures providing 
relief for livestock with hay prices remaining high. Some producers have 
started fertilizing hay and pasture fields while others are beginning to 
prepare for the upcoming corn and soybean season.
TEXAS: For the month of March, precipitation mostly ranged from trace amounts 
to upwards of 3 inches; however, isolated areas in East Texas received up to 
6 inches of rainfall. Wheat and oats are responding to recent rains, but more 
moisture is needed to further the progress of the crops. Corn, rice, and 
sorghum planting has started across the State. Cattle are in fair condition 
and producers are depending on supplemental feed for much of their herd. 
Pasture and range conditions are mostly poor to very poor due to the lack of 
moisture and high winds.
UTAH: This report for Utah is for the month of March 2023. Topsoil moisture 
48% adequate, 52% surplus. Subsoil moisture 2% short, 70% adequate, 28% 
surplus. Pasture and range condition 1% very poor, 25% poor, 42% fair, 28% 
good, 4% excellent. Winter wheat condition 11% poor, 66% fair, 22% good, 1% 
excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 7% very short, 34% short, 52% adequate, 
7% surplus. Stock water supplies 2% short, 90% adequate, 8% surplus. Cattle 
and calves condition 16% poor, 38% fair, 45% good, 1% excellent. Sheep and 
lambs condition 20% poor, 47% fair, 32% good, 1% excellent. Livestock 
receiving supplemental feed for cattle 92%. Livestock receiving supplemental 
feed for sheep 86%. Cows calved 26%. Ewes lambed-farm flock 23%. Ewes 
lambed-range flock 7%. Sheep shorn-farm flock 16%. Sheep shorn-range flock 
1%. Cold winter temperatures along with isolated snowstorms has delayed 
fieldwork throughout the State for the month of March. As of March 26,2023, 
snowpack according to NRCS in Utah was 194 percent measured as percent of 
median snowfall. Box Elder County reports livestock producers continued 
feeding cattle due to the cold winter weather. Beaver County and Box Elder 
County report livestock producers were dealing with calving issues due to the 
wet winter weather.
VIRGINIA: For the week ending March 26, 2023, topsoil moisture is 5% very 
short, 26% short, 66% adequate and 3% surplus. Subsoil moisture is 10% very 
short, 17% short, 69% adequate and 4% surplus. Winter wheat condition 1% 
poor, 34% fair, 59% good, 6% excellent. Barley condition 53% fair, 44% good, 
3% excellent. Livestock condition 5% poor, 37% fair, 51% good, 7% excellent. 
Pasture and Range condition 2% very poor, 20% poor, 40% fair, 35% good, 3% 
excellent. Hay and roughage supplies 3% very short, 25% short, 71% adequate, 
1% surplus. Percent of feed obtained from pastures 16%. Virginia experienced 
below normal precipitation in March. Temperatures were slightly above normal 
with cold snaps in some areas in the middle of the month. Weather has allowed 
pastures to start to green up and livestock to be turned out earlier than 
expected in some areas. Hay and roughage supplies are mostly adequate to 
short. Primary activities for the month include fields being prepped for 
conventional tilling, pasture seeding, manure applications and fertilizer 
applications.
WASHINGTON: In southcentral Washington, weather was colder and dryer than 
usual. Producers could have started farming because the fields were dry 
enough. However, the weather was too cold. Producers were waiting for weeds 
to emerge to spray, but they hadn't started growing yet. Weather was not 
ideal for crops or livestock, but calving had begun around the region. 
Yakima County received some moisture in March, mostly as rain. Many fruit 
orchards and vineyards were pruned or worked on training plants, so they were 
ready for the season. Hop growers started stringing up their trellis systems, 
planting cover crops, and laying out irrigation hose. Perennial alfalfa 
fields were beginning to green up. Northeast Washington was warmer with some 
rain. In east central Washington, some spring seeding started. In the drier 
areas of Walla Walla County spring planting started. In other areas fields 
were still under snow. Parts of Douglas County remained under snow cover and 
snow mold was forecast to be an issue for producers. Farming started in the 
southern end of Lincoln County. Winter wheat was in mostly fair condition. 
Soil moisture was in short to adequate supply, but not excessive. In 
southeast Washington, the nights remained cold and precipitation continued.
WEST VIRGINIA: For the week ending March 26, Topsoil moisture 4% short, 66% 
adequate, and 30% surplus. Subsoil moisture 4% short, 72% adequate, and 24% 
surplus. Hay and roughage supplies 14% short, 83% adequate, and 3% surplus. 
Feed grain supplies 6% short, 93% adequate, and 1% surplus. Winter wheat 
condition 48% fair and 52% good. Pasture condition 3% very poor, 2% poor, 48% 
fair, 46% good, and 1% excellent. Cattle and calves condition 37% fair, 59% 
good, and 4% excellent. Cows calved 60%. Sheep and lambs condition 34% fair, 
60% good, and 6% excellent. Ewes lambed 61%. Weather conditions for the month 
have been a mix of warm and cooler temperatures with winds and rain. High 
winds caused some damage in parts of the region. Farming activities for the 
month included watching for frost on fruit trees, calving, and lambing.
WISCONSIN: March saw most of Wisconsin receiving at least twice the average 
snowfall for the month. Much of that snow is still on the ground in many 
areas. Overall State temperatures were a half degree below average, while 
precipitation was 0.37 inch above average. The last weekend in March brought 
record snowfall to both the Madison and Milwaukee areas. Due to the snow and 
rain, manure hauling was difficult in most areas. Winter crops and pasture 
were beginning to show some green but are now mostly snow covered. There is 
expressed optimism about the maple syrup season, and preparations continue 
for spring fieldwork.
WYOMING: This report for Wyoming is for the entire month of March 2023. 
Topsoil moisture 1% very short, 11% short, 85% adequate, 3% surplus. Subsoil 
moisture 5% very short, 25% short, 69% adequate, 1% surplus. Winter wheat 
condition 4% very poor, 18% poor, 59% fair, 18% good, 1% excellent. Hay and 
roughage supplies 18% very short, 24% short, 57% adequate, 1% surplus. 
Livestock condition 1% very poor, 1% poor, 14% fair, 79% good, 5% excellent. 
Stock water supplies 3% very short, 9% short, 87% adequate, 1% surplus. 
Pasture and range condition 5% very poor, 19% poor, 20% fair, 53% good, 3% 
surplus. Barley planted 1%. Cows calved 16%. Cattle and calves death loss 5% 
heavy, 39% average, 56% light. Ewes lambed 4%. Sheep shorn 19%. Sheep and 
lambs death loss 3% heavy, 43% average, 54% light. The majority of Wyoming 
experienced below normal temperatures during March according to the Mountain 
Regional Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service. The 
High Plains Regional Climate Center (HPRCC) maps for the period February 25, 
2023, to March 26, 2023, indicate that much of the northwest and east saw 
temperatures at or 4 to 8 degrees below normal for the month. Portions of 
southwest and west-central Wyoming experienced temperatures as much as 16 to 
20 degrees below normal. Precipitation levels were also at or below normal 
for much of the State according to the HPRCC for the same period. In most of 
northern, central, and eastern Wyoming, much of the moisture received was on 
average about 25 to 90 percent of normal. Portions of west and south-central 
Wyoming, however, fared better. Precipitation levels in these areas were in a 
range of about 110 to 150 percent or higher above normal according to the 
HPRCC. Isolated portions of the west and south received as much as 4 to 
6 inches of moisture. In face of the colder temperatures and less than 
favorable precipitation for much of the State, drought conditions improved 
according to the United States Drought Monitor report published on March 23, 
2023. The amount of land rated drought free increased to 43.5 percent, 
compared to 36.3 percent as published on February 23, 2023. The amount of 
land experiencing abnormal dryness stood at 18.4 percent, down slightly from 
19.6 percent as published on February 23. Moderate drought decreased to 
29.2 percent, compared to 34.1 percent on the previous report. Severe drought 
fell slightly to 7.6 percent compared to 8.7 percent last month. Extreme 
drought was unchanged at 1.3 percent. With morning temperatures running below 
zero, Lincoln County was having a late spring. Day time temperatures were 
also mostly below freezing. Farmers and ranchers looked forward to spring. 
Lower elevation snow was not melting, with much remaining on the ground. 
Field activities had not yet begun. Ranching conditions ranked among the 
harshest in decades. Ranchers were having difficulties with calving and 
lambing as a result. In Goshen County, soil conditions improved with the 
intermittent moisture. Winds, however, dried topsoil.

Statistical Methodology

Survey Procedures: Crop progress and condition estimates included in this 
report are based on survey data collected in December, January, February, and 
March. The non-probability crop progress and condition surveys include input 
from approximately 4,000 respondents whose occupations provide them 
opportunities to make visual observations and frequently bring them in 
contact with farmers in their counties. Based on standard definitions, these 
respondents subjectively estimate the progress of crops through various 
stages of development, as well as the progress of producer activities. They 
also provide subjective evaluations of crop and soil moisture conditions. Any 
weather data mentioned in this report is provided by outside sources such as 
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Agricultural 
Weather Information Service (AWIS).

Information Contacts

Listed below are the commodity statisticians in the Crops Branch of the National Agricultural Statistics Service to 
contact for additional information. E-mail inquiries may be sent to nass@usda.gov

Lance Honig, Chief, Crops Branch....................................................................... (202) 720-2127

Chris Hawthorn, Head, Field Crops Section   (202) 720-2127
     Irwin Anolik - Crop Progress and Condition   (202) 720-7621
     Joshua Bates - Hemp, Oats, Soybeans   (202) 690-3234
     Natasha Bruton - Barley, Cotton System Consumption and Stocks, Grain Crushings   (202) 690-1042
     David Colwell - Fats and Oils, Flour Milling Products   (202) 720-8800
     Michelle Harder - County Estimates, Hay   (202) 690-8533
     James Johanson - Rye, Wheat   (202) 720-8068
     Chris Hawthorn - Corn, Flaxseed, Proso Millet   (202) 720-2127
     Becky Sommer - Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum   (202) 720-5944
     Travis Thorson - Sunflower, Other Oilseeds........................................................ (202) 720-7369
     Lihan Wei - Peanuts, Rice......................................................................... (202) 720-7688

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